Abstract: There is disclosed an improved process and apparatus for the production of finely-divided metal and metalloid oxides by flame hydrolysis of corresponding metal and metalloid halides whereby fouling of burner apparatus is substantially completely avoided.

Abstract: Relatively high pressure mixtures consisting essentially of a major ethane component and a minor, but substantial, propane component are separated into relatively pure ethane and propane fractions by subjecting such mixtures to a number of specific cooling steps and an expansion step preparatory to and in combination with a fractional distillation step. The overhead ethane fraction of the method has a propane content of no greater than about 10 mole percent and is provided in the gas phase. The propane bottom fraction of the method is provided in the liquid phase.